We Asked, You Said, We Did

We Asked

We asked for final comments on the content and wording of a proposed new Scheme to ensure it is clear and fit for purpose.

You Said

The provision for more frequent elections would be a distraction from core community council business, but that community councils should still be able to replace members who leave and recruit to fill vacancies within the election cycle as long as safeguards were in place to ensure democratic legitimacy.

We Did

We re-worded some of the text for clarity without changing the principle.

We removed the provision for top-up elections and amended the provision for elections which community councils can request when their numbers drop.

We added a clause to the provision for co-option to require community councils to publicise in advance the procedure for co-option as well as the intention to co-opt to replace a member who has left.

We Asked

The consultation ran from 27th November 2017 to 2nd February 2018. We put forward a range of options for savings and feedback was received via a variety of methods.

You Said

The budget consultation attracted a mixed reaction from the public. We received 1250 responses to the online survey.

Seven public meetings were held, we received letters and written representations, held meetings with parent council and groups impacted by the proposals.

Three petitions were also received.

We Did

Councillors met on 8th March 2018 and agreed the budget for 2018/19. All respondents’ views were taken into account. Savings of £7.376 million were approved.

Some of the savings relate to organisational redesign and associated management restructure within the Council, including a 40% reduction in management posts. Staffing reductions will be made through voluntary means.

In addition there will be savings of £1.666 million made through management efficiencies. A number of CAPs and halls are to be offered to local communities with a view to achieving Community Asset Transfers in line with the Community Empowerment Act. It was also agreed that Council Tax would rise by 3%.